Article source: S T E . M A R I E  ART + DESIGN 

The restaurant is a synthesis of what we call Italian Farmhouse Modern. The design was strongly inspired by three icons of Italian design: Carlo Mollino, Bruno Munari, and Enzo Mari. The result is a balance of simplicity, drama, and irreverence. The finishes are rooted in an earthy quality much like most roadside Osteria’s or country Trattorias found throughout Italy. In that same vein, the food, wine, products, herbs, and preserves are given as much focus as the paintings on the walls. An ongoing interplay between assertive and simple, elemental and modernist is a mainstay of Italian culture. We tried to capture that quintessential Italian juxtaposition by running the theme of humble vs pretty throughout the design. The mix of sconces with fabric lampshades and opaline glass highlight the apposing influence of modernist and “nonna” style in our lighting design. A similar exchange can be seen in the pleated oak walls that act as a modest rhythmic backdrop from which the mix of sartorial banquet seating stansout.As a nod to a simpler time, we keep a courtesy phone at the ready for those who require a lift home after dinner and packing away a Demi John of wine with friends and family.

Image Courtesy © Knauf and Brown

• Architects: S T E . M A R I E  ART + DESIGN
• Project: Osteria Savio Volpe
• Location: 615 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC
• Photography: Knauf and Brown
• Software used: AutoCAD, Rhino,  SketchUp, Solidworks, Photoshop
• Collaborators: Graphic Design & Branding by Glasfurd and Walker
• Contractor: Harmony Pacific Projects
• Custom Metal Fabrication: Fabrikaat
• Custom Wood Furniture and Shelving System: Lock and Mortice
• Area: 2450 sqft
• Completed December: 2015

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